Implementation of Improved Genetic Algorithm in distribution system with feeder reconfiguration to minimize real power losses

The topology of an Electrical Distribution System (EDS) can be suitably modified to minimize the real losses. Basically, losses in an EDS arise due to two factors: 1) fault in the network 2) overload in the feeders. The power losses occurring due to overload or uneven load are dealt in this paper. EDS is normally unevenly loaded and hence often need load balancing, which can also be done by reconfiguring the network like changing the status of both sectionalizing and Tie switches. This paper presents a new approach for optimal reconfiguration of a radial Electrical Distribution Network based on the advanced genetic algorithm using improved methods of selection, crossover and fitness function to determine the optimal configuration path. The opened switches are taken into consideration for crossover process. After obtaining number of solutions (off springs) from the combinational analysis, the optimal solution is selected based on the fitness function, i.e., the solution having the minimal power losses. The proposed approach is tested on IEEE 16 bus system.